Our Supporters

Your donation is neither charity nor empty philanthropy; it is an investment in our future. Without organizations like Hattiloo Theatre we are not building rounded communities, but ignoring the fabric and soul of society. Every dollar makes a difference, as we aim to be a theater for all - a place where diverse audiences experience extraordinary productions and programs. Won't you join us?

Established in 2014, the Whitman Sisters are a distinguished group of Memphians who collectively sponsor each play at Hattiloo, and enjoy various benefits and invitations to private events in return. Their funds help satisfy cost such as royalties, actor stipends, set and costume costs, and so on. Each Sister:

ABOUT THE HISTORICAL WHITMAN SISTERS: In 1899, The Whitman Sisters, Mabel, Essie, Alberta and “Baby” Alice, formed the Whitman Sisters Comedy Company, a world-renowned performing company. The sisters are historical figures of Black vaudeville, running one of the highest paid and longest running acts in its history. The sisters performed for white and Black audiences alike, and refused to allow segregation within their audiences. The eldest sister, Mabel Whitman, became the first Black woman to manage and continuously book her own company in leading Southern houses. Not only were the Whitman Sisters pioneers of their times, they helped to catapult the careers of many other Black performers by featuring them in their acts, such as Leonard Reed (American Tap-Dancer), Jeni LeGon (American Vocalist), Willie Bryant (American Jazz bandleader), and countless other entertainers.